Registrations open for milestone arts trail

THE Bellarine Arts Trail will return this spring, marking its 10th year as a free celebration of local creativity across the peninsula.

Set to take place over the Melbourne Cup long weekend, the two-day event will see more than 80 artists open their studios and exhibition spaces in Barwon Heads, Ocean Grove, Point Lonsdale and Queenscliff.

Arts trail coordinator Lou Kennedy said the trail has become a major drawcard for visitors and a valuable showcase for the region’s growing arts scene.

“The artist-led Bellarine Arts Trail is now in its 10th year and we have watched with excitement and awe the growth and connection of our creative community and creative hubs across the Bellarine,” she said.

“As well as supporting the creative industries across the Bellarine, the Arts Trail also builds the Bellarine as an exciting arts destination with significant economic benefits to the broader economy in accommodation and tourism.”

More than 12,000 people attended last year’s Arts Trail, generating thousands of dollars in art sales and providing a boost to local accommodation, hospitality and tourism businesses.

Originating in 2016 with Ocean Grove artist Kaz Shirley, the Bellarine Arts Trail has grown into a community-led event featuring professional artists, emerging creatives and hobbyists.

Registrations are now open for artists wishing to take part in the 2026 event, with opportunities available for both individual studio exhibitions and group shows.

Kennedy said one of the trail’s greatest strengths was the connections it created between artists.

“The arts trail exposes Bellarine artists to the wider community and provides an opportunity for artists to connect and network with other arts trail artists,” Kennedy said.

“Artists tell us how valuable the arts trail has been for connecting with other artists and how friendships and collaborations have unfolded after meeting as part of the trail.”

The trail also offers visitors the opportunity to step inside working studios, meet artists and experience art in the places where it is created.

“Our visitors love the community feel of the arts trail and the opportunity to talk with and connect with a range of professional, emerging and hobbyist artists,” Kennedy said.

Registrations close 26 June.

For more information or to register, head to bhac.org.au/bellarineartstrail

The Bellarine Arts Trail will take place on 31 October to 1 November.